Choosing a mover can be very difficult for those that have never done so before.  This can be a very trying time as you actually trust your most valuable possessions to complete strangers but you have little choice in the matter.  All in all you can have a highly positive experience when using a moving company if you follow a few simple rules of thumb to make it so.  Just like everything, an informed consumer is a smart consumer. 

The first rule is to know the market.  Let’s say that you are planning to move across the country.  This means that you have to have a company that will travel the distance that you are requiring.  Now, this is where you need to do a little research.  There are two basic types of movers, local and nationwide.  A local mover is just like it sounds.  They generally stay within certain boundaries and offer cheaper rates.  Now, it is possible that they also offer nationwide rates but they will most likely be much higher as that is out of the normal realm of their business.  A nationwide mover specializes in the long haul such as New York City moving companies.  So they are better equipped to do the job and have lower rates for doing so.

Next you should check out the company itself.  This entails checking how long they have been in business, if they have references and so on.  You should determine if the company is professional.  Anyone can call themselves a mover if they have a truck, so you want to be sure that they are in line with other companies as far as ethics and trust.  Take the time to meet with the representative of the company and go over all of the aspects that will go into the move.  Make sure that they present themselves in a professional manner and that everything is completely legal.  You should check out how the company insures itself and your possessions as well.

Rates are the next rule and probably the most important.  Check with several movers before making any kind of decision.  Keep in mind that a large national chain is most likely going to offer better rates but they may not offer the best service to their customers. For example, several Vancouver movers charge low rates but provide outstanding moving service service. If you jump at the first chance for hiring a mover, you stand to lose not only money but also a fair bit of service in the process.

Lastly you should go over the contract that you will sign with the mover in fine detail.  Make sure that it clearly states when they will arrive, how much the service will cost and if there is any added fees involved.  If you have questions regarding the contract be sure that you ask them prior to signing it.  This will help to protect yourself as well as the mover.